My 10 Essentials for Trail Running

[@JeffPelletier]

Links to each product are included in the description, and you can shop all of them here: kit.co/jeffpelletier5/my-10-essentials-for-trail-running

[@lorim2000]

Absolutely. I’m a backcountry hiker and a first responder, plus I have wilderness first aid training that is a real eye opener. What we hikers think as a quick rip around the trails can turn into something life threatening quickly. As a rule of thumb, you need to carry life saving kits if you’re on a trail that requires more than 1 hour for an ambulance/first responder to get to you. Stay safe!

[@sargebeats]

dang bro I was just gonna run next to the sidewalk in the park

[@JeffPelletier]

😂

[@TheSamwhyte]

Then why even click on a trail running video?

[@pasqualinodachille7178]

@@TheSamwhyte sense of humour bro, get one

[@groundworkcivils7506]

This guys running to anchorage 👍

[@hippiejesusman]

@@TheSamwhytedont think a sence of humor is in your running kit

[@justmeeightythree]

Great list! I’m an Aussie emergency doctor and newly back to trail running after a long break having kids. For me the first aid kit should absolutely have a compression bandage and some good quality medical fabric-style brown tape. With that you could wrap up a sprain or use in conjunction with a stick to splint a broken wrist or ankle. Some painkillers and antihistamines might be useful. Oh and please don’t forget your epipen if you have anaphylaxis (especially to bees/ insects). It seems obvious but the number of people who come in to ED who forgot to take their epipen is crazy. I definitely agree that taking a basic first aid course is a great idea. Thanks again!!

[@0utd00rsy]

Some great advice there. Three whistle blasts is the reply you can give to the international distress signal, which is six blasts repeated every minute.

[@cordeiropedro]

Extra gloves are a must for me. When you are tired its quite easy to get the gloves wet when refilling water or when you out your hands down in the snow.

[@erikdebeen5838]

Essential to me is a warm hat. Im not a trail runner, but spent a lot of time in the alps. When it gets cold you loose a lot of heat through your head, a warm hat can be really light and warm (merino for instance) & glacier proof (class4) glasses if you go into the snow. Also we always take an extra compass, a map...And essential is toilet paper and anti-diarrhoa medication. Lastly for me it can be really handy to put anything you want to keep dry into vacuum bags.

[@JackFrost008]

Neck needs cover

[@erikdebeen5838]

@@JackFrost008 yes indeed. I love my buff and polar buff for that. Got a mask as well, but that's only needed when it's really cold and/or windy as well.

[@JackFrost008]

@@erikdebeen5838 :)

[@wazzup105]

I have a very light rainjacket (more a wind jacket) that I always stash. Weighs next to noting but does one hell f a job keeping me warm in a storm. Also some "reflectiing underfloor insulation" (1 piece to go on my chest, and 2 pieces to go on my thighs) Further I always carry a small ziploc bag in my hip pocket with a compas, lighter, knife, bandaids, painkillers, caffeine, pen, (waterproof) paper, some money (both a Eu20 bill and some coins) an emergency gel oh and I always have some toiletpaper and a light plastic bag. When you gotta go you gotta go. I've wiped with leaves and even snow, but yeah toilet paper is a luxury (just remember to clean up after your done. Especially the toiletpaper makes a mess, hence the plastic bag). And a laminated card with ID, medical details (bloodtype mainly) with an emergency phonenumber. I usually bring my phone, but it might break (like I did last summer when I fell cycling). And that's all when I consider my bag "empty".. that's just always in there I only take it out when I wash the thing.

[@KJI_05]

add a conpression bandage, so that you can out it when you might get cramps and also soe pain relief spray to put on your calf for example. Always bring them, not for you but others, that's how I got my bandage...

[@KJI_05]

Jeff, can you make a video on how young runners like me can gradually increase their running distance and way of traing so as to become similarly like you, as in participating to UTMB 100s. THanks

[@jcgnbd7410]

A small tea lite candle is great if you wrap your space blanket around you and have that under you between your feet. Be careful not to light your space blanket though…..lol

[@davidbonnet6249]

Some of the things I need: hat, sunglasses, extra socks, tape/vaseline for chafing, etc.

[@cpruns4501]

The only thing not on your list that I like to carry (and I don't totally know why) is a few extra zip lock bags of all sizes. I have never needed them up to this point but they weight almost nothing and take up very little space but I just feel like they could come in handy. Great video as always.

[@CanadianSledDog]

Great punchy video! A couple weeks ago the forecast was 14C and 1mm of rain for my 16k run. I was 8k out when it started dumping 10-20mm of rain per hour and dropped to 9C and windy. It's crazy how unpredictable this stuff can be. I could not feel and barely move my hands and my softshell was doing almost nothing. A hardshell is so important, and I like it to fit over my pack to trap more warm air.

[@davehoover8853]

Nice presentation and a great look at the new “10 Essentials”. People traveling stupid light are just headed for trouble. Your list will keep you or the injured party alive and provide a way to signal or summon help. I would move Gaiagps up on the list as it is so good for cross country travel. People use apps, not to many skilled compass users out these days. Again, great source of info - scrambler and ski patroller in the Tetons.

[@globemaster67]

Brilliant and very informative. Should be essential viewing for those new to trail running/hiking in wilderness

[@DeanPattrick]

One of the best gear lists on KZbin.! Thanks 🙏 Was out in the forest today and always carry the minimum of: hydration, gels, silver blanket, first aid kit, compass and of course a sh*t kit (which you left off the list), never know when you are go be caught out 😬

[@JeffPelletier]

Hah, you’re right - TP is the 11th essential!

[@Foxr6]

Well done 👏 my buddies make fun of me for caring so much gear. In saying that I have spent a long cold night alone on the east coast trail that I won't soon forget. If It wasn't for the basics it could have been a lot worse. Thanks for the post!

[@michaellane1316]

Better to have than have not.

[@horsebattery9243]

Probably a good idea to say what's in the first aid kit. Bandaids probably not that useful compared to a roll of adhesive zinc oxide tape and some medication like aspirin is useful. Vaseline good for blisters and chafed skin. If not a tourniquet, knowing you can improvise from a belt or a strap would be useful. Very impressed you mention a proper whistle, so many skimp on this.

[@saunamchan2908]

Perfect! Appreciate the focus on not just staying light, but also on being prepared. I'd be interested in seeing a "how to" on packing for a 2+ days fastpacking trip, or at least some insights/advice.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! I’ve got some videos planned around fastpacking as well, hopefully to be published within the next few weeks.

[@fambacalp8917]

Good list! To bring an ID and written down ICE contacts might be good as well on longer trips in remote areas.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks, great suggestions!

[@Eric-469]

Finally. Thank you. I've been looking for someone to go over what they pack, into which pack they use, so I can get a feel for space availability.

[@JeffPelletier]

Glad I could help! Anything else you’d like to see covered?

[@Eric-469]

@@JeffPelletier I'd love to see a review of the Adv Skin 12 ! It's the pack I'm considering (which is why your capacity comparison was so clutch). Thanks again, man. Great channel.

[@JeffPelletier]

Ah nice, yea that’s my go-to pack. I’ll do a review on it for sure.

[@deannaspringall5793]

Great video - I will add few more things to my long run pack! If I think I’ll be on my own a lot (as opposed to participating in a trail race) or if I am on more technical terrain, I carry a Birdie. It is an extremely light-weight alarm with strobe. 🚨

[@troyfrazer8653]

Hi Jeff! I appreciate this simple and straight forward video on trail essentials. A possible "talking add-in" maybe lip balm, sunscreen and eye protections.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Troy! Great suggestions, and all equally if not more important in the winter.

[@user-mj3fk4hg2l]

What about a survival bracelet? I always take my Azengear 5 in 1 tool with me. I found it on Amazon last year and really liked it.

[@simonparent4842]

In the northern hemisphere, "mozzie rep" (Mosquito Repellant!) is essential especially from late April to early June when flies and mosquitos are at their worse.

[@markthomasson5077]

Just run faster!

[@SiGoodchild1]

A really useful and straight-to-the-point video. Thank you.

[@leilaswansborough]

I'm glad I don't run anywhere where I might need bear-repellant spray!!! I always carry a small amount of cash, a bank card, ID, a small battery bank for my phone and a couple of tampons on top of the normal - extra (waterproof) layers, food, water (with tailwind), mini first aid kit.

[@LD-qg6pr]

Very smart ! Well done! Thanks for taking the time to put this together!

[@DevRunner]

Great video! As a road marathoner for the past 5 years, I've only just begun doing trail runs on easy days - so much fun! Your post is very informational - this is great!. As a fellow KZbinr, I love sharing my experiences and knowledge as well. I know how much goes into these videos! Keep posting - I just subscribed!

[@bryguy87]

I think another great piece of gear to have is a battery bank… even a solar battery bank. They make small inexpensive ones that easily fit in any pack.

[@OldMountaineer]

Good info, no nonsense. Thanks.

[@jakeriot69]

Great video, this is very essential and could save lives.

[@patrickbedruz6475]

Cordage to put up your cover shelter with the space blanket.

[@munkki2700]

my essentials for 30km runs: planned route before hand, gps sport watch, good running shoes, 0.25dl -> 1l water, cell phone, some money. Travelling light as possible and keeping the hr at productive area..

[@JeffPelletier]

Route planning is an important one! Do you tend to load the route on your watch as well?

[@munkki2700]

@@JeffPelletier sometimes if route is unknown, for example new trail in the woods

[@Andy-fn4zw]

I can totally relate to your t shirt. Great info. thanks.

[@dantecafarelli]

Frankly, I would not count on a smartphone for navigation in a trial environment. Much better to use something like an eTrex from Garmin, which is very small and 100% reliable.

[@UltraDad]

Hey man love your content. Tour de Giants was amazing. At Fat Dog I brought some ibuprofen, and I actually used my space blanket for a trail nap. The XA filter would have been handy but thankfully the creek water I drank was clean!!!

[@JeffPelletier]

Yea, those space blankets are pretty handy. Thanks!

[@williamwessinger3938]

Lots of folks do it, but I'd encourage everyone out there to make sure they've read up on the research regarding ibuprofen/ NSAIDs in use during ultra events before using them during long events. Can be dangerous.

[@playarabbit]

Cool man you should do a TSA Approved carry on version

[@JeffPelletier]

Good call! Travelling with things like poles can be problematic which I don’t think some people are aware of.

[@Seby-biketrial]

great thanks for sharing! i have never done an ultra yet, but i plan to so it is very helpful

[@JeffPelletier]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lh3540]

good stuff, I was trying to figure out what size vest pack to buy

[@alasdairpurkis5629]

Such an informative and well planned video. Really useful!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Alasdair, glad it was helpful!

[@morenocorvini]

Really good video. Congratulation. Useful info and well done editing.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thank you very much!

[@shivarajpatil]

Very nice and useful things suggested 👍🏻 Thank you brother

[@ticktock1861]

6 whistle blows to signal distress...if someone responds you're supposed to hear three whistles blows back to you

[@JeffPelletier]

I suppose this shows my North American bias. According to Wikipedia, “The recognized mountain distress signals are based on groups of three, or six in the UK and the European Schwarzwald… In practice, either signal pattern is likely to be recognized in most popular mountainous areas as nearby climbing teams are likely to include Europeans or North Americans.”

[@adventuresinmiddleage75]

this may have been answered before....where's your t-shirt from it's inspired!....great content as usual!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! That was an old Arc’teryx shirt.

[@scottyab]

Well presented and yeah I agree a good essential list.

[@runningwithstephen]

Great video mate. Very helpful for me planning a trail run properly

[@themittonmethod1243]

Great set of basic gear, totally appropriate for trail running, but also a VERY good base for a hiking pack, and quite similar to the minimum of what I carry when even doing something as straightforward as Quarry Rock in Deep Cove, or the Brothers Creek Trail, on lower Hollyburn!

[@JeffPelletier]

Agreed, pretty much the same kit, whether hiking or on the run.

[@OmarAbdulMalikDHEdMPASPACPAPro]

Hi; new subscriber here! Trail running is my passion. This is an informative video. I don't run that far; 23 mile trail run at most. But, as I prepare for my 1st ultra. I'll need to carry more. Thanks for sharing this with us! 😃👍🏞️🏃🏾‍♂️👋🧑🏾‍⚕️

[@stijndeklerk]

I'd agree with most of your list but essensials I'd add, sun glasses/hat, phone, lipbalm, buff, cash+card.

[@prntm926]

Item list to screenshot/ copy; 1. **Headlamp** - For visibility, especially if running in low-light conditions or at night. A spare battery is recommended. 2. **Whistle** - For signaling and calling for help, especially in poor visibility conditions like rain or fog. A loud whistle is preferred over the voice. 3. **Warm Clothing** - Items like arm warmers, a buff, lightweight shell, gloves, and a down jacket (in colder conditions) to stay warm if you need to stop or shelter. 4. **Space Blanket** - A disposable space blanket for warmth and signaling in emergencies. It’s compact but effective in colder weather. 5. **Emergency Bivvy Sack** - A more protective option than a space blanket, this emergency shelter can keep you warm and alive in worst-case scenarios. 6. **Water Filter** - A portable water filter, like the Salomon XA filter cap, allows you to treat water from natural sources instead of carrying extra water. 7. **Nutrition** - Enough food (around 250-350 calories per hour) for your run, with extra to help others if needed. This includes items like Clif Bars, gels, and blocks. 8. **First Aid Kit** - A small first aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids, Advil, salt pills, antihistamines, duct tape, and a small knife. It's also recommended to have basic wilderness first aid knowledge. 9. **Fire-starting Tools** - A lighter or waterproof matches to start a fire for warmth and signaling. Carrying something to burn (like laundry lint) is also suggested. 10. **Compass and Map/GPS Device** - A compass and map for navigation, though a GPS device like a Suunto or an app like Gaia can be used. It's important to know how to use these tools effectively. In remote areas, an inReach satellite device provides location tracking and SOS capabilities. some runs may require more specialized gear, like crampons, ice axes, or bear spray. Always let someone know your route and estimated return time.

[@mountainman.4478]

Awesome video! Thank you

[@TravelTourTaste]

Hello, we hope you're well. This is great advice and i will take all your advice as you can never learn enough when it comes to Trail Running. do you have much planned for the weekend? Hope you have a great weekend. Kind Regards Sarah and Glenn

[@rolf_siggaard]

Very sensible advise. Thanks.

[@wingtaylor9175]

Good vid, Jeff

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Wing!

[@Aj23427]

Great video!!!

[@Kelly_Ben]

Great video, just subscribed.

[@rowanrong-anwang8267]

Thank you! Very helpful!

[@eanjackson3961]

Great video and excellent checklist, Jeff. Thank you!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Ean!

[@bartoszsawicki960]

A little powerbank i wool sleeve

[@mpelletier62]

Thank you , great video!

[@JeffPelletier]

Glad you liked it Marc! Great last name ;)

[@espressocyclist3310]

Nice video. Have you take all these stuff for every training? Even it's only 10-15km?

[@JeffPelletier]

No, this is for long runs in the backcountry / mountains.

[@aliciavalentyn5889]

Excellent content 🙏🏔🏃‍♀️

[@JeffPelletier]

Thank you!

[@philipaddyman7402]

Zip ties, or whatever you Americans call them. Will replace snapped laces or rucksack straps or anything really.

[@JeffPelletier]

Great suggestion! We call them Zip ties (or Zap straps) here in Canada too 🇨🇦.

[@kzsposeidon3121]

I always carry some really hard hitting pain killers - what are you gonna do with a really bad rolled ankle / broken leg / arm and no signal. There was a two day rescue near me recently where they couldn't locate the injured woman due to wind/mist etc. She could move herself because of a broken shin...and they weight like 5grams

[@JeffPelletier]

Good call!

[@Kelly_Ben]

I also carry aspirin in case I come across someone with chest pain, and benadryl in case someone has bee allergies etc.

[@01irishfan]

Great Video!! I was wondering if the Nathan insulated hydration bottle will fit in the Salomon Vest? Thank you

[@Frankie_apollo1717]

Great Video! Thanks a lot.

[@MS_249]

I like the video. Thank you!

[@JeffPelletier]

Glad you liked it!

[@daniellucas2582]

Thank you for your explanations. The only thing i wonder about is why to carry Antihistamins. Do you carry it to treat a runny nose and your upper airways swelling ? (which they are very helpful for) or do you expect to treat a severe anaphylaktik reaction ? ( in which case they are not the best option possible).

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Daniel. The antihistamines are intended for wasp bites, as we often come across nests on the trails. Perhaps it’s not the option though as you say. Could you recommend something else?

[@daniellucas2582]

@@JeffPelletier Have you used them against wasp bites ? Do they help against the pain or the itch ? (I only know them for their systemic use for mild allergies of the upper airways or Type 1 allergic skin reaktions) How did you handel the sleepiness which comes with the use of this drugs ? The live threatening anaphylaktik reaction should be treated with adrenaline (everyone who has a known history of anaphylaktik or severe allergic reaction should carry one every time of day) I only comment about that because i think a lot about what medical equipment is worth carrying when going to the outdoors and i find it quite difficult to balance between too much and too little 😅

[@JeffPelletier]

I’ve never had to use them myself, but early on I noticed it being something that was often stocked at aid stations and recommended by others for this purpose. I’ll have to look into this more I suppose.

[@juanjosediazbrito4602]

THANK YOU Sr.

[@ThisRightSideUp]

All survival pocket knives should have a corkscrew. LOL

[@JeffPelletier]

Hah, exactly. Hard to find a knife without one except in the smallest size. Such a waste.

[@ThisRightSideUp]

@@JeffPelletier 🧗‍♀️

[@jordanwall4008]

During trail runs I take a can of bear spray in case I come across a bear or mountain lion and need to protect myself.

[@dormantviewer]

Thanks..nice video..

[@garybrown9719]

Im 57 and lucky never spraned an ankle Lint soaked in grease

[@convexbill7218]

Always bring your ID and a credit card

[@SafeMotions]

Hey Jeff, thanks for a really informative video. Brings me back to the time I used to do desert runs. So I would add to your gear maybe a desert hat to prevent sunburns? Depends on where you run I guess... Also, as a fellow KZbinr, great editing. I just subbed to your channel.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thank you! Yep, a hat is a great call, and I used a desert hat when I ran the Grand to Grand years ago - saved me from a bad sunburn.

[@BillOzanne]

Do you have an updated recommendation for a lightweight down jacket? The item in the video is no longer sold.

[@JeffPelletier]

I'm told that the Arc'teryx Cerium SL will be replaced very soon with the Cerium Lightweight Hoodie. It's currently only available for women, but men's looks to be coming this Spring.

[@Trekking365]

Great video! How do you pack your camera gear?

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Douglas! If I’m carrying a GoPro, I keep it in a small neoprene case in my front pocket. I rarely carry my mirrorless camera on the run, but when I do I usually just hang on to it with the help of a hand strap.

[@Trekking365]

@@JeffPelletier thanks for the quick response! Yeah I meant more the mirrorless one. It seems like a tricky issue. Think I might get like the a6400 and give that a try since it’s a lot smaller than the a7’s

[@JeffPelletier]

I recently got an a6600 to replace my A7sii and it makes a big difference. I do have a small neoprene case for it, as well as padded lens cases if I want to pack it away. But with a larger camera I’d probably use a 15 litre pack.

[@DNFADV]

Thank you.

[@MountainGurkha14]

good job

[@newbarker523]

Are you sure about the three blasts on a whistle? On a product packaging for a whistle, and my Googling says: "The international distress signal is 6 blasts of a whistle every minute. The recognised reply is 3 blasts every minute." Would be good to get this one nailed before I am in difficulties.

[@JeffPelletier]

I believe it may be different in the UK and Europe than North America. According to Wikipedia, "The recognized mountain distress signals are based on groups of three, or six in the UK and the European Schwarzwald. A distress signal can be three fires or piles of rocks in a triangle, three blasts on a whistle, three shots from a firearm, or three flashes of light, in succession followed by a one-minute pause and repeated until a response is received. Three blasts or flashes is the appropriate response." I wouldn't overthink it though.. In a true emergency, this is about notifying a response team as to your location, not communicating a specific message.

[@newbarker523]

@@JeffPelletier Ahh, that's great to know, thank you. Let's hope we don't have to put the theory into practice.

[@liammurrayful]

Diphyne spray for repetitive attain injuries during races

[@JeffPelletier]

Good tip!

[@Zach-ls1if]

It might sound crazy but I bring condoms, I’ve actually had quite a few “encounters “ out on the trails.

[@davidmackintosh429]

😂😂😂😂

[@jeromedegrieve]

Has anyone noticed his t-shirt? 😂 so true and related to this video

[@tg7837]

I also want an ice axe.

[@Kelly_Ben]

I'm the winter I'm all about it! 😆

[@groundworkcivils7506]

You forgot the tent 👍

[@ericaheyl1684]

Road ID w/ critical contact and medical info. I wear mine on my shoe.

[@deannaspringall5793]

I am a big fan of always wearing my roadID as well.

[@vilavg3657]

What shoes do you recommend?

[@Yanivkahana]

Thanks for that, what will you recommend if 8-10L is required to be carried?

[@JeffPelletier]

Are you wondering about which pack I would recommend?

[@Yanivkahana]

@@JeffPelletier Yes, I assume it's hard to put 8L on this one?

[@JeffPelletier]

You could fit most of this in an 8L-10L pack, like the Salomon Adv Skin, aside from maybe the puffy jacket which would be fine in warmer months.

[@Yanivkahana]

@@JeffPelletier Gotcha.. Thanks!

[@losapriscos7258]

​@JeffPelletier do you mean all of this, in addition to the 10L bladder?

[@itslit420m8]

Hey man, what size did you get the Bonatti jacket in? I'm 189cm / 6 feet 2 inches and wondering if I should go for M or L.

[@JeffPelletier]

I wear the medium and I’m 6’ but it just fits. I’d recommend that you go for the large. Having it be a little bigger also allows you to wear it over a pack in some cases.

[@MaxRothFitness]

I can’t seem to decide wether to get the 5 or the 12

[@JeffPelletier]

I always recommend going a little bigger, when in doubt. You can race with a pack half full, but if it’s too small you might not to able use it for bigger adventures. The new Sense Pro 10 may be a sweet spot: geni.us/wf4IJu

[@DriveandThrive]

Does anyone carry a knife or pepper spray? I was attacked by a dog yesterday so curious

[@BrendanEvan]

As a large person, my assumption of needing 400 calories per hour is probably about right.

[@jasmin-yd9ro]

👍👍

[@LazyStory]

If I needed all that to run, I would never run. I dont even wanna run with a cell. It is too heavy.

[@marcinmielczarek2m]

Oh! After I hit like button you have 666 of them ;) Anyway... Great video and great list. I would have considered a power bank as well. And for sure I would have add a buff.

[@JeffPelletier]

Power Bank is a good one! Great way to recharge your phone in an emergency.

[@marcinmielczarek2m]

@@JeffPelletier or in your case when you use petzl headlamp you can recharge thatone too :)

[@JeffPelletier]

That’s true, although I’ve always found it more efficient to just carry a spare headlamp battery, especially since you can’t charge a headlamp while using it (at least not a Petzl).

[@marcinmielczarek2m]

@@JeffPelletier Yeah, true. Anyway, good Łuck for the future :)

[@benferguson3805]

Ion even do this

[@pasqualified]

bring a portable charger for your phone... who uses a map?

[@bobbynewland1862]

ran my local trail today and called my self a trail runner came to youtbe to find out this is an entire lifestyle and i know nothing.🤦🏿‍♂️

[@mikec4229]

all sounds good, except you running w a 20# load lol